Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced on March 4, 2025, that he may cut electricity supplies to the united states if President Donald Trump continues imposing tariffs against Canada. Ford’s statement follows Trump’s recent implementation of a 25% tariff on Canadian imports and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy.
- Doug Ford threatens US power supply cut
- Trump imposes tariffs on Canadian goods
- Ontario plans 25% surcharge on electricity exports
- Ford reaches out to US lawmakers for support
- Trudeau announces retaliatory tariffs against US
- Immediate action sought without new legislation
Ford’s announcement comes as part of his retaliation strategy against U.S. tariffs affecting Canadian trade. He indicated that approximately 1.5 million Americans in Michigan, New York, and Minnesota rely on electricity imported from Canada. In addition to the proposed surcharge, Ford has warned that he might completely halt power supplies to these states if the situation escalates further.
In response to the U.S. actions, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also introduced retaliatory measures, including a 25% tariff on $30 billion worth of American goods. Ford has taken additional steps by banning U.S. companies from bidding on Ontario infrastructure projects and canceling a $100 million deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service.
- Ford’s proposed surcharge: 25% on Canadian electricity exports.
- States affected: Michigan, New York, Minnesota.
- Total American customers impacted: Approximately 1.5 million.
The timing for implementing these tariffs remains uncertain as Ford stated he would act only if Trump’s tariffs “persist.” He is looking for ways to avoid lengthy legislative processes while emphasizing the need for immediate action against ongoing U.S. tariffs.
This situation highlights the escalating trade conflict between Canada and the U.S., with both countries taking significant measures that could affect millions of consumers across borders.